Assessing the Role of Fish Farming in Poverty Alleviation through a Socio-Economic and Factor Analytical Study in Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

Fish culture is a fast-expanding livelihood activity in India, playing a key role in income, jobs, and food security. Chhattisgarh has great promise for inland aquaculture, though its poverty-reduction effect is limited by socio-economic inequalities, institutional factors, and infrastructural constraints. The current research sought to analyze the socio-economic and demographic characteristics of fish farmers in the selected Chhattisgarh districts and determine most significant factors affecting their livelihood through factor analysis. The survey covered 243 respondents such as fish farmers, traders, consumers, policymakers, and researchers using a structured five-point Likert scale questionnaire. Descriptive statistics collapsed demographic and occupational data, while Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) applying Principal Component Analysis and Varimax rotation derived latent factors driving poverty-reduction outcomes. Findings revealed that the majority of participants were young (25–34 years), male (64.6 %), and rural-dwelling (53.1 %) with mixed educational and professional backgrounds. Descriptive statistics revealed moderate consensus on the significance of government policies, access to technology, market linkages, and climate considerations to improve livelihoods. Factor analysis revealed two major components accounting for 59.3 % variance: (i) Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Livelihoods, and (ii) Institutional and Environmental Support Systems. The research concludes that aquaculture improves substantially the diversification of income, employment, and household resilience. Inclusive institutional support, training, access to technology, and climate-resilient culture are requirements. Capacity development, policy interventions, and public–private partnerships are suggested to enhance sustainable, inclusive, and equitable aquaculture-led poverty reduction.